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UAE Minister of State Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi participated in the International Economic Forum organized by the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) in Panama City. The forum brought together more than 2,500 leaders and decision-makers to strengthen dialogue on addressing climate change, accelerating energy sector transformation solutions, and building partnerships that support economic prosperity in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Her Excellency’s participation in the forum reflects the UAE’s commitment to deepening partnerships with Latin American and Caribbean nations, according to official statements. The engagement aims to advance sustainable economic development pathways and enhance cooperation based on innovation and future-oriented collaboration at both bilateral and international levels.
Strategic Meetings on UAE Latin America Cooperation
On the sidelines of the forum, Al Kaabi held several meetings with senior officials and regional and international leaders as part of the UAE’s continued presence on the international stage. The minister met with Albert Ramdin, Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Carlos Hoyos, Deputy Foreign Minister of Panama, and Javier Jiménez, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Paraguay, according to the ministry.
Additionally, discussions took place with Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of the United Nations Tourism Organization, and representatives from the National Industrial Confederation of Brazil. These bilateral engagements underscored the breadth of potential economic partnerships between the UAE and the region.
Focus on Institutional Partnerships and Sustainable Development
During these meetings, Al Kaabi emphasized the importance of transitioning from phased cooperation to organized institutional partnerships with clear frameworks directed toward achieving tangible results. The focus areas identified include sustainable energy, infrastructure connectivity, digital transformation, and innovation-driven development.
The minister highlighted the UAE’s pioneering experience in mobilizing financing for large-scale initiatives that enhance economic resilience, support regional value chains, and contribute to accelerating long-term development goals. However, specific funding commitments or project details were not disclosed during the forum.
Scalable Models for UAE Latin America Economic Growth
Al Kaabi stressed the importance of scalable cooperation models capable of achieving shared growth and sustainable impact over the next decade. These discussions reportedly laid the foundation for formulating strategic projects between the UAE and Latin American and Caribbean countries, though timelines for implementation remain to be determined.
Meanwhile, the UAE’s engagement in Panama demonstrates a broader strategy to expand economic and diplomatic ties beyond traditional partner regions. The participation reflects growing interest in strengthening South-South cooperation and diversifying international relationships through multilateral platforms.
In contrast to previous bilateral engagements, this forum approach allows the UAE to engage simultaneously with multiple regional stakeholders and explore cross-border initiatives. The emphasis on institutional frameworks suggests a shift toward more formalized and long-term cooperation structures.
Expanding Diplomatic Outreach
Her Excellency was accompanied by Omar Shehadeh, the Foreign Minister’s Envoy to Caribbean and Pacific countries, signaling the UAE’s dedicated diplomatic resources toward these regions. This representation underscores the strategic priority placed on developing relationships with Latin American and Caribbean nations.
The forum focused particularly on climate resilience and energy transition, areas where the UAE has positioned itself as a regional leader through hosting COP28 and significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure. These shared priorities provide common ground for deepening cooperation with Latin American partners facing similar sustainability challenges.
Authorities have not confirmed specific follow-up meetings or deadlines for finalizing partnership agreements discussed during the Panama forum. The next steps in advancing these strategic projects between the UAE and Latin American countries are expected to be announced through diplomatic channels in the coming months.
